Grateful Dead's Phil Lesh battling cancer

Grateful Dead's bass player Phil Lesh is battling bladder cancer and has had to cancel two shows

Grateful Dead's bassist Phil Lesh is battling bladder cancer.

The 75-year-old musician has revealed he was diagnosed earlier this month, but is "fortunate" that the tumours are "non-aggressive".

Phil - who's cancelled two Phil & Friends gigs - wrote on the website for his restaurant, Terrapin Crossroads: "Dear Friends, I am sorry to let you know that I will need to cancel the October 24th and 25th Phil & Friends shows with Chris Robinson.

"I was diagnosed with bladder cancer in early October, and have spent the last few weeks at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale doing tests and eventually surgery to remove the tumors.

"I am very fortunate to have the pathology reports show that the tumors are all non aggressive, and that there is no indication that they have spread."

The 'Sugar Magnolia' star told fans he will be able to perform two weeks after undergoing surgery and promised to return with a free live show soon.

He continued: "So thanks to my local doctor Cliff Sewell, and the incredible team at the Mayo Clinic, all is well and I can return to normal activities in two weeks from my surgery. Unfortunately, that means I will have to cancel the PLF shows scheduled for Oct 24/25.

"We will reschedule these shows as soon as we can, but in the meantime, keep a lookout for a free Grate Room show before I leave for the East Coast shows. I also plan to pop in and jam in the bar before we leave, so I hope to see you there at Terrapin. Love Will See You Through.... -Phil (sic)"